U.S. Congress: Bicameral Legislation Filed to Allow Marijuana Use in Federally Assisted Housing Where Legal Under State Law

OG article by Anthony Martinelli

December 18, 2025

Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton from D.C. and Senator Cory Booker from New Jersey have introduced the Marijuana in Federally Assisted Housing Parity Act to let people use marijuana in federally funded housing, such as public housing and Section 8 programs, as long as it follows the state's marijuana laws, including in the District of Columbia. Right now, federal rules ban people who use illegal drugs like marijuana from entering these housing options and let landlords evict them for such use. Adult-use or medical marijuana is legal in D.C., New Jersey, and 39 other states, with over 90 percent of Americans backing legalized medical marijuana.

Norton stated that folks in federally funded housing should not face eviction just for handling medical needs or using something permitted in their state. She noted shifting public opinions on marijuana and urged Congress to align with constituents, highlighting bipartisan potential due to states' rights. Booker added that tenants must not face discrimination, eviction, or denial for legally using marijuana or addressing medical issues in allowed states. The bill would stop these unfair practices and ensure choices match state laws.

Recently, Congress has blocked the Department of Justice from stopping areas with medical marijuana laws using federal money. This new bill would permit marijuana use in federally assisted housing per state rules and require the Department of Housing and Urban Development to create regulations limiting marijuana smoking similarly to how it restricts tobacco smoking in those places.